News: Secretary of Defense Visits Camp Pendleton

The U.S. Secretary of Defense, Chuck Hagel, speaks during a town hall meeting aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton Calif., Aug. 12, 2014. The purpose of his visit was to thank our service members and their families for their contribution to our nation and reinforce his commitment to the defense of the nation.

CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. - The U.S. Secretary of Defense, Chuck Hagel, visited Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton Calif., Aug. 12, 2014, to thank our service members and their families for their contribution to our nation and reinforce his commitment to the defense of the nation.

Hagel attended a Transition Readiness Seminar to gain insight on military-to-civilian transition programs during his trip.

Hagel said they want to help military members with their transition out of the services as much as they can.

“When I got here and landed we went over for a couple of sessions because I wanted to see some of your colleagues that are transitioning out,” said Hagel. “Some are retiring others are transitioning out and I wanted to listen to the kind of effort we’re making to make sure they understand not just what their benefits are or what their options are but also what they want to do next.”

Lastly Hagel held a town hall meeting where he spoke about his trip around the world and about things that are going on outside of 1st Marine Expeditionary Force. He also took this time to thank Marines and their families for their service.

“I want you to know that there is no higher priority for me and for our leader, President Obama, than to take care of our people and their families,” said Hagel. “We are committed to do that and will continue to do that.”

After addressing the Marines, Hagel took questions from the crowd before handing out challenge coins to those who attended the event.